Soccer | LaLiga
Ronald Koeman defends Antoine Griezmann after Barcelona fans ridicule him
Antoine Griezmann was the subject of criticism by Barcelona's own fans during Sunday's 2-1 win against Getafe, and manager Koeman came to his defense.
Some Barcelona fans are bitter with Antoine Griezmann, attributing his wage as the reason for Lionel Messi’s departure. Earlier this Summer, Griezmann was booed by a group of fans outside the training grounds. During Sunday’s game against Getafe, he was whistled by fans.
Barcelona defeats Getafe 2-1
Barcelona won the game 2-1 thanks to goals in the first half from Sergi Roberto and Memphis Depay, moving them up to fourth place in LaLiga. Griezmann, however, was not so fortunate. He was heckled by the home crowd nearly every time he touched the ball. He never made an impact and was eventually substituted.
Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman came to Griezmann’s defense, saying, “As a manager, I can’t understand whistling our own player. You could whistle him if he had a bad attitude or didn't work hard, but Antoine had other difficulties in the game. He wasn't as fortunate as we could hope, but it's just one game.”